Aston Martin F1 driver Lance Stroll has launched a scathing attack on current Formula 1 cars, claiming they are '1000 times worse' than Formula 3 cars in terms of driving enjoyment. In an interview with The Race, Stroll criticized the direction of the sport ahead of the 2026 regulation changes.
Aston Martin F1 driver Lance Stroll has launched a scathing attack on current Formula 1 cars, claiming they are ‘1000 times worse’ than Formula 3 cars in terms of driving enjoyment. In an interview with The Race, Stroll criticized the direction of the sport ahead of the 2026 regulation changes.
What did Stroll say exactly?
In the interview, Stroll explained that current F1 cars are too heavy and overly complex, stripping away the pure driving pleasure. ‘When you drive an F3 car, you feel like you’re driving a real race car. In F1, it’s more like operating a complicated machine,’ he said.
Why is Stroll criticizing the 2026 rules?
Stroll’s comments come as F1 prepares for a new set of technical regulations in 2026, aimed at making cars more sustainable with advanced hybrid powertrains. However, Stroll believes these rules could make matters worse, leading to heavier, less responsive cars that stray from the essence of racing.
Are other drivers concerned?
Stroll is not alone. Drivers like Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have previously voiced concerns about the current cars’ weight (around 798 kg) and lack of direct feedback. With the expected weight increase in 2026, the problem could worsen.
Is there hope for better driving fun?
Despite the criticism, some analysts believe the 2026 rules could strike a better balance between performance and sustainability. But Stroll remains pessimistic: ‘If the trend towards heavier, more complex cars continues, we risk losing the core of racing.’
What does this mean for F1?
Stroll’s remarks put pressure on the FIA and teams to rethink design philosophy. While new rules focus on environmental and technical aspects, drivers demand cars that deliver genuine driving pleasure—something that also attracts fans.
Key facts
- Stroll: F1 cars are ‘1000 times worse’ than F3 in driving fun
- Current F1 car weight: ~798 kg
- 2026 regulations target sustainability with hybrid engines
- Other critics: Verstappen, Hamilton
- Source: The Race interview
FAQ
Did Lance Stroll really say F1 cars are worse than F3?
Yes, in an interview with The Race, Stroll stated that current F1 cars are ‘1000 times worse’ than F3 cars in terms of driving enjoyment and feel.
What are the 2026 F1 regulations?
The 2026 regulations are a set of technical changes aimed at making F1 cars more sustainable, with more powerful hybrid engines and lighter designs, but drivers fear increased weight.
Are other drivers criticizing current F1 cars?
Yes, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have also expressed concerns about the weight (around 798 kg) and lack of direct feedback, affecting driving pleasure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did Lance Stroll really say F1 cars are worse than F3?
Yes, in an interview with The Race, Stroll stated that current F1 cars are '1000 times worse' than F3 cars in terms of driving enjoyment and feel.
What are the 2026 F1 regulations?
The 2026 regulations are a set of technical changes aimed at making F1 cars more sustainable, with more powerful hybrid engines and lighter designs, but drivers fear increased weight.
Are other drivers criticizing current F1 cars?
Yes, Max Verstappen and Lewis Hamilton have also expressed concerns about the weight (around 798 kg) and lack of direct feedback, affecting driving pleasure.
Sources
- The Race — F3 '1000 times more fun' than F1 – Stroll may be 2026 rules' fiercest critic
